FOOTBALL SHIRT SPONSORS – THE LATEST

Manchester United sponsors AIG were saved when the U.S. Treasury loaned the insurance company $85 billion as part of a rescue plan that helped stabilize world financial markets.

AIG is in year two of a four-year deal that will pay United $102.9 million as part of the largest shirt sponsorship arrangement ever.

The insurance giants will now remain emblazoned upon the famous red shirt of Man United, after this pledge of support from the U.S Treasury.

West Ham United who terminated their sponsorship deal with travel company XL after they went bust played this weekend with squad numbers replacing the company’s logo.

However this remains only a short term measure with the long term plans regarding sponsorship still in discussion.

A petition has been running regarding the use of the Bobby Moore Fund logo as the sponsor for the remainder of the 2008/09 campaign. However a club spokesperson replied, “Although aware and respectful of the supporter-backed campaign to replace XL Holidays with the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK, the commercial reality is the club has a financial duty to secure the best possible sponsorship package to help with the continued development of the first-team squad.”

This dismissal seemingly emphasises the club’s intent to find an alternative sponsor.

On the international scene, The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) announced an extension to their sponsorship deal with eircom which will now run until 2010.

This new contract sees eircom continue as the primary sponsor of the FAI and primary sponsor of all Republic of Ireland International teams.

Speaking at the announcement, Managing Director of eircom Retail, Cathal Magee said: “eircom is delighted to extend its strong links with Irish soccer and renew our sponsorship of the International teams.”